Brendan Schaub stands as a multifaceted personality who transitioned from professional mixed martial arts to comedy and podcasting.
His dynamic career trajectory has made him a notable figure in entertainment and sports media. This comprehensive profile explores his journey, achievements, and current professional landscape.
Brendan Schaub’s Biography
| Attribute | Details |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Brendan Peter Schaub |
| Nicknames | “Big Brown”, “The Hybrid”, “The Sting”, “Bapa” |
| Born | March 18, 1983 |
| Age | 41 years old |
| Birthplace | Aurora, Colorado, United States |
| Nationality | American |
| Ethnicity | German, Italian, English descent |
| College | University of Colorado Boulder |
| Profession | Podcast Host, Comedian, Former MMA Fighter |
| Net Worth | $4 million |
| Spouse | Joanna Zanella |
| Children | 2 sons (born in 2016 and 2019) |
Brendan Schaub emerged from a diverse athletic background, transitioning from football to mixed martial arts before finding his true calling in entertainment and comedy.
His versatile career demonstrates remarkable adaptability and entrepreneurial spirit.
Early Career
Schaub’s athletic journey began in high school, where he excelled in lacrosse and football.
After going undrafted in the NFL, he pivoted to mixed martial arts, training in boxing and Brazilian jiu-jitsu. Within six months of training, he won the Colorado novice-division Golden Gloves heavyweight title.
Professional Career
Brendan Schaub’s professional MMA career spanned from 2008 to 2014, culminating in a UFC record of 6-5-0. He began his journey after transitioning from professional football, quickly making a name for himself in the heavyweight division.
Schaub’s UFC debut came after competing on The Ultimate Fighter season 10, where he reached the finale. Throughout his career, he secured notable victories against fighters like Mirko Cro Cop and Gabriel Gonzaga.
Schaub’s fighting style was characterized by a blend of striking and grappling, showcasing his versatility in the octagon. His most significant achievement was winning the Knockout of the Night bonus for his victory over Cro Cop at UFC 128.
Schaub retired from MMA in 2015, transitioning to a career in comedy and podcasting
Wife
Brendan Schaub is engaged to Joanna Zanella, with whom he shares two sons. Born in 2016 and 2019, his children represent a significant part of his personal life.
Prior to his current relationship, he briefly dated MMA fighter Ronda Rousey.
Brendan Schaub’s Net Worth Details
Brendan Schaub’s net worth is estimated to be $4 million as of 2025. His wealth stems from multiple diverse income streams across entertainment and entrepreneurial ventures.
Fight Purses
| Opponent | Event | Purse |
|---|---|---|
| Travis Browne | UFC 181 | $32,000 |
| Andrei Arlovski | UFC 174 | $47,000 |
| Matt Mitrione | UFC 165 | $46,000 |
| Lavar Johnson | UFC 157 | $36,000 |
| Mirko Cro Cop | UFC 128 | $70,000 (incl. $70,000 Knockout of the Night bonus) |
Endorsements
- Black Buffalo
- Kaged
- ONE Championship
- Ecko (former)
Career Records
| Opponent | Result | Method | Event |
|---|---|---|---|
| Travis Browne | Loss | TKO (Punches) | UFC 181 |
| Andrei Arlovski | Loss | Decision (Split) | UFC 174 |
| Matt Mitrione | Win | Technical Submission (D’Arce Choke) | UFC 165 |
| Mirko Cro Cop | Win | KO (Punch) | UFC 128 |
| Antonio Rodrigo Nogueira | Loss | KO (Punches) | UFC 134 |
FAQs
1. When did Brendan Schaub start his MMA career?
Schaub began his professional MMA career after transitioning from football, with his first significant breakthrough in 2009 during The Ultimate Fighter.
2. What is Brendan Schaub’s current career after retiring from MMA?
After retiring from MMA, Schaub became a podcast host, stand-up comedian, and TV personality. He hosts several podcasts, including “The Fighter and the Kid” and “The Schaub Show.”
3. How did Brendan Schaub transition from MMA to comedy?
After his loss to Travis Browne at UFC 181, Joe Rogan and Bryan Callen advised Schaub to retire from MMA and pursue a career in comedy.
4. What is Brendan Schaub’s background before MMA?
He played football at the University of Colorado and attempted to pursue a professional football career.
5. What was Brendan Schaub’s most notable victory in the UFC?
Schaub’s most notable victory was against Mirko Cro Cop at UFC 128 in March 2011, where he won by knockout in the third round.
6. What business ventures has Schaub started?
He launched Tiger Thiccc Whiskey in 2023 and has been active in comedy and podcasting.
7. Is Brendan Schaub married?
He is engaged to Joanna Zanella and they have two sons.
8. What martial arts has Schaub practiced?
He trained in boxing, Brazilian jiu-jitsu, and achieved a black belt in BJJ in 2021.
9. Has Schaub won any championships?
He won the Ring of Fire Heavyweight Championship and the Colorado Heavyweight Golden Gloves.
10. What podcasts does Brendan Schaub host?
Brendan Schaub hosts “The Fighter and the Kid” podcast, “Below the Belt with Brendan Schaub” podcast, and co-hosts the “Golden Hour” podcast.
